45 is the New 45

Its seems like nobody wants to be the age they really are. I’m constantly hearing about how 40 is the new 30, 50 is the new 40, etc. But I think we should celebrate age. After all, the alternative is death and I’d rather be alive than dead. Today I celebrate 45, just in time to start my mid-life crisis. Thing is, I have no desire to have one. I guess you could say I already did that 11 years ago when I quit a great job to do nothing, then went back to school to learn metalsmithing. At 45 I might not know everything, but I have learned a few things and I thought I’d share. This list is in no particular order of importance.

I’ve learned that true love usually doesn’t come in a flashy car with money. Most real love is quite poor, but very rewarding.

My parents are much cooler than I thought. And they aren’t nearly as clueless as I accused them of being when I was younger.

My sister is actually very fun and not as annoying as I thought all those years ago. Actually, she’s my best friend.

A great fitting pair of jeans can give me more confidence than losing 10 pounds. And they are worth every penny spent on them.

Cowboy boots are timeless in the fashion world and are worth the investment.

Listening to my gut will always lead me in the right direction. When I start listening to other people and ignoring myself, I end up with regrets.

Having an office and a nifty job title are overrated.

Good taste does not have to cost a lot of money.

When it comes to fashion, decorating, throwing parties and life in general, a little whimsy is necessary.

A sense of humor is more important than good looks. Thankfully, I have been blessed with both!

Always be aware that everyone is struggling. Try to be empathetic.

Expensive gifts aren’t always the best. Sometimes a cheap pair of Converse sneakers can still make me smile years later (thanks, Steve!).

Great friends can disappear from my life for many years, but we can pick up exactly where we left off when we reconnect.

Having a lot of friends is good, but one or two really close friends who know me and love me exactly for who I am is much more important.

Quality is more important than quantity.

Shoes always make the best gifts. Jewelry is good too.

What goes around comes around. Treat people well and they’ll return the favor.

There’s nothing wrong with a college degree, but I know some really, really smart people who only have high school degrees. And some not so smart people with advanced degrees.

I’ve learned to admit when I’m wrong and to apologize genuinely. I have a big mouth and have never learned to shut it completely, but I have learned to admit when I should have kept it closed.

While I always want to improve my appearance, I’ve learned to like what I see in the mirror – flaws and all.

I will never, no matter how hard I diet and exercise, have a flat stomach.

Birthday should always be celebrated, regardless of age.